Investigating the link between alcohol use, gut health, and heart disease in people with HIV

Microbiome, metabolites, and alcohol in HIV to reduce CVD Cohort (META HIV CVD Cohort)

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10908497

This study is looking at how drinking too much alcohol can impact gut health and increase the risk of heart problems for people living with HIV, and it hopes to find ways, like using probiotics, to help improve gut health and lower inflammation.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10908497 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how unhealthy alcohol consumption affects gut health and contributes to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in individuals living with HIV. It examines the changes in gut bacteria and the production of specific metabolites that may lead to increased CVD risk. By analyzing these factors, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets, such as probiotics, to improve gut health and reduce inflammation. The research involves collecting biological samples and health data from participants to understand these relationships better.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who engage in unhealthy alcohol consumption.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or those without HIV may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for reducing cardiovascular disease risk in people living with HIV who consume alcohol.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that gut health and microbiome alterations are linked to various health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.